Ultrastructure of Neurons in the Caudal Mesenteric Ganglion in Kittens during Early Postnatal Ontogeny

Abstract

Electron microscopic studies were performed to study the development of the neural elements of the sympathetic caudal mesenteric ganglion (CMG) in cats from the moment birth to the end of the second month of life. Non-simultaneous maturation of neurons and their terminals was seen; along with completely developed neurons, gliocytes, and synapses, neonatal kittens had numerous immature forms of these structures. In animals aged 14 days, the proportion of immature cells decreased, though neuron destruction was more frequent at this age. The CMG of animals of all age groups contained mostly axodendritic synapses, along with fewer axosomatic synapses. CMG ultrastructure in kittens became comparable with that in adult animals at age 60 days.